During the first week of the 2026 legislative session in Springfield, Illinois, State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) expressed his opposition to a resolution backed by Democrats that criticized President Trump’s use of tariffs as a means to protect American workers and industry.
Halbrook defended the administration’s trade policies, noting that both major parties have used tariffs in the past to bolster American industry and national security. He stated, “What President Trump did was finally stop pretending that free trade was fair trade.”
He also questioned the motivations behind the resolution. “The idea that Illinois Democrats who raise taxes every year, jack up fees, and drive families out of the state are suddenly champions of working families is hard to take,” Halbrook said.
Halbrook called for lawmakers to vote against the resolution and instead focus on solutions aimed at making Illinois more affordable and economically competitive.
Halbrook has represented Illinois’ 107th House District since 2023, after being elected to replace Blaine Wilhour.
